Hossana In The Highest

Sam C. Ezugwu’s "Hossana In The Highest" is a dynamic English setting of the Sanctus, designed to carry the congregation into the heart of the Eucharistic Prayer. The piece opens with a measured, reverent Andante tempo, allowing the choir to proclaim "Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of host" with a sense of deep awe. This gentle pacing reflects the solemnity of joining the heavenly chorus in acknowledging God's glory.

The mood shifts beautifully as the text moves to the acclamation. At the first "Hossana," the music breaks into a bright, joyful Allegro. This sudden lift in tempo is a familiar and beloved approach in Nigerian Catholic choir lofts, turning the prayer from a quiet meditation into a spirited, rhythmic celebration.

For the Benedictus ("Blessed is he who cometh..."), the choir returns to the prayerful opening tempo, creating a moment of quiet anticipation before launching into one final, energetic "Hossana in the highest." It is a well-structured Mass part that gives both the singers and the congregation a true sense of liturgical movement, balancing reverence with pure joy.